Sen. Warner calls for transparency in IT spending

Jan. 13, 2014 - 06:00AM
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Agencies must do a better job of controlling the costs of IT programs, Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., told reporters Friday.

He said agencies fail to accurately gauge the scope of their projects and that costs can sometimes end up being four times the original estimate.

Warner called for the Senate to pass the Data Act – which requires more detailed reporting on agency IT spending and projects – as a first step toward a more efficient IT procurement system. The legislation has passed the House and is awaiting action by the full senate.

“We need to identify not just programs that are working but programs that aren’t working.” Warner said.

He said agencies should also focus on their acquisition workforce to ensure they have the experience and the skills needed to get the best prices and best return on investment.